What’s on in Islington This week
What’s On This Week in North and East London
Highlights and essential planning info
What’s on in Islington This week. This weekly London events guide covers Monday 16 February 2026 to Sunday 22 February 2026 across London
It is February half-term week for both Islington and Hackney
Anchor venues included in this guide (plus many extras) are: Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Union Chapel, Almeida Theatre, King’s Head Theatre, Hackney Empire, Islington Assembly Hall and Barbican Centre.
Music and live gig hubs highlighted include O2 Academy Islington, The Lexington and The Garage.
Nightlife and clubland essentials covered include Egg London Nightclub, The Cross London, Electrowerkz, Scala,
Don’t miss events this week
If you only do five things, these are the “London this week” standouts.
- American Psycho at the Almeida (evenings 19:30, matinees 14:00; this week’s shows are flagged sold out in listings).
- Sweet Mambo at Sadler’s Wells (selected performances this week include Tue 17, Wed 18, Fri 20, Sat 21 at 19:30).
- Ryoji Ikeda Weekend at the Barbican (Fri 20 and Sat 21; plus a late-night club programme on Fri 20).
- Cass McCombs live at Union Chapel (Fri 20; seated gig in a spectacular space).
- Slimelight Manifesto at Electrowerkz (Sat 21; goth/industrial, ticket tiers published).
Market-powered London weekend plan
These markets are reliable “things to do” anchors for North and East London.
- Canopy Market: Fri 12:00–20:00; Sat–Sun 11:00–18:00.
- Broadway Market: Sat 09:00–17:00; Sun 10:00–17:00.
- Islington Farmers’ Market: Sun 10:00–14:00, and it’s explicitly dog-friendly for well behaved dogs.
- Highbury Farmers Market: Sat 09:30–15:00 (as posted by the market).
- Columbia Road Flower Market: Sun 08:00–15:00-ish.
- Old Spitalfields Market: Sun 10:00–17:00 (site lists day-by-day hours).
- Brick Lane Market: Sun 10:00–18:00 (travel listings give market hours).
- Whitecross Street Market: Mon–Fri 11:00–15:00.
- Camden Passage: main market days are Wed and Sat, roughly 08:00–17:00.
- Islington Square Saturday Market: every Saturday 11:00–17:00 with Urban Food Fest.
Michelin Guide picks for date nights, roasts, and “special occasion” meals
These are MICHELIN Guide listed options in and around your areas (mix of Stars and selections).
In Farringdon and Clerkenwell, strong classics include St. JOHN (One Star), Quality Chop House, and Bouchon Racine.
In Shoreditch, top bookings include The Clove Club(Two Stars), Brat (One Star), and Popolo.
For Islington favourites and modern bistros, the MICHELIN Islington area listing includes spots such as The Pig and Butcher and Drapers Arms, plus many more.
If you want “new energy” openings, the MICHELIN Guide also tracks new restaurants in Islington and Hackney areas. Use that list for fresh date-night scouts.
Sport this week
Arsenal fixtures in this week window:
- Wed 18 Feb 2026: Arsenal vs Wolves, listed at 20:00 UK time (tool shows 12:00 PST, which converts to 20:00 GMT).
- Sun 22 Feb 2026: Tottenham vs Arsenal, listed at 16:30 UK time (tool shows 08:30 PST, which converts to 16:30 GMT).
- Arsenal FC
Tip: book a pub table near the match area early. North London fills fast on derby days.
Monday 16 February 2026
Family-friendly half-term daytime
Mrs H Sings “From The Top Of The Tower” — Union Chapel, Islington | Doors 15:00, start 16:00, ends 17:00 | Free.
This is an immersive music show for kids up to age nine. It is a perfect half-term warm-up.
Notes: under-16s must be with an adult. Family-friendly: | Dog-friendly: not stated | LGBTQ+ friendly: welcoming venue.
Theatre & performing arts
American Psycho — Almeida Theatre, Islington | 19:30 | Listed as sold out in weekly listings.
This is a dark musical thriller take on 80s excess. Expect loud design and sharp satire.
Notes: content guidance recommends 15+. Booking essential. Family-friendly: | Dog-friendly: | LGBTQ+ friendly: venue welcoming.
Comedy
Aisling Bea: Work in Progress — The Bill Murray (Angel) | 18:15–19:45 | Tickets listed with fees.
It is a preview night, so expect notes and experimentation. It is often the best value comedy.
Notes: 18+. Booking required.
Elbow Room — The Bill Murray (Angel) | 20:00–21:30 | Ticketed.
This is a mixed-bill “new material” night. You get variety and quick pace.
Notes: check age policy when booking.
Pubs & bars
For a relaxed Monday, use the weekday street-food window at Whitecross Street Market. It runs Mon–Fri, 11:00–15:00.
It is ideal for a low-cost lunch, plus a short walk to Farringdon for drinks. Dog-friendly: depends on stall and pub.
Tuesday 17 February 2026
Family-friendly half-term daytime
Puppet Playcation: Ice Age — Little Angel Studios, Islington | Runs Tue 17–Wed 18 Feb | Ticketed workshop.
Kids build and play with puppets in a structured session. It fits half-term perfectly.
Notes: aimed at ages 5–9. Booking required.
Live music
NoSo — Islington Assembly Hall, Islington | 19:00 | £20.86 (inc booking fee).
This is indie-pop with sharp songwriting and identity-led storytelling. It suits a seated listening night.
Notes: 16+.
LGBTQ+ events
TRANSMISSIONS PRESENTS: Wuthering Heights (2011) — Dalston Superstore, Dalston | 19:00–22:00 | Ticketed, often low-cost.
This is a queer-friendly screening night in a nightlife venue. The programme notes state subtitles will be shown.
Notes: seating is mixed and first come. LGBTQ+ friendly:
Community and culture
If you want a calm Tuesday, do a “market stroll” without crowds. Choose Old Spitalfields Market. It is open daily, and Sundays are shorter hours.
It is a good all-weather plan in East London.
Wednesday 18 February 2026
Live music
Coach Party — Islington Assembly Hall, Islington | 19:00 | From £24.89.
It is a high-energy guitar gig in a landmark hall. Expect rising-band intensity and a young crowd.
Notes: 16+.
Gilby Clarke — O2 Academy2 Islington | Doors 19:00, curfew 23:00 | Ticketed.
This is classic rock guitar energy. It is a strong midweek gig choice.
Notes: age rules vary by ticket agent. Check before buying.
Theatre & performing arts
Sweet Mambo — Sadler’s Wells | 19:30 | Sold out.
This is a major Pina Bausch work, staged by Tanztheater Wuppertal. It is the week’s biggest dance ticket.
Notes: production warnings include flashing effects and simulated gender-based violence in ticketing listings.
Classical and contemporary composition
Jóhann Jóhannsson: Cinematic Suites — Barbican | 19:30 | Ticketed.
This is a concert shaped around film-forward modern classical writing. It suits a calm midweek reset.
Nightlife & clubs
Wednesday Club — Egg London | 22:00–04:00 | £4–£8 + fees (listing).
Genres span house, tech house, electro and hip hop. It is built for a midweek blowout.
Notes: 18+. Last entry and drink deals vary by promoter.
Kings Cross night out
TeamUCL Sports Night @ Scala — Scala, King’s Cross | 23:00–05:00 | Ticketed (student-led night).
This is a big weekly student party format with pop and club staples. Go early for smoother entry.
Notes: 18+. Photo ID required.
Thursday 19 February 2026
Daytime community
The Garden Press Event 2026 — Business Design Centre, Islington | 09:00–16:30 | Trade event.
If you work in media, marketing, or garden retail, this is a strong networking day.
Notes: entry rules vary by organiser.
Theatre & performing arts
Almeida For Free: American Psycho — Almeida Theatre, Islington | Free performance for under-25s.
This is a targeted youth-access night, plus a related masterclass and Q&A. Tickets go on sale Mon 16 Feb at 17:00.
Notes: age limit applies. Booking required.
BLINK (preview) — King’s Head Theatre, Angel | 19:00 | Tickets from ~£16.50 in listings.
This is a bittersweet “digital-age rom-com” with themes of grief, loneliness and surveillance.
Notes: age guidance 14+. Content warnings include grief and mention of suicide.
Live music
Between the Buried and Me — Islington Assembly Hall | 19:00 | £39.31 (inc booking fee).
Expect virtuosic progressive metal with big dynamic swings. It is for serious live-music heads.
Notes: 16+.
The Covasettes — Scala, King’s Cross | Doors 19:00, ends 22:30 | Ticketed.
This is an indie-rock club show in a standing venue with multiple floors.
Notes: 16+ and no lift is stated in access notes. Plan stairs.
December 10 — O2 Academy Islington | Early doors 16:30 (curfew 18:45) and later doors 20:00 (curfew 22:15).
This is a debut-run “Introducing!” style set in an intimate venue. It is ideal for teen fans.
Pricing is listed at £18.65 face value on one official seller.
Notes: age rules apply (commonly 8+ with an adult for under-14s).
Friday 20 February 2026
Live music
Cass McCombs + band — Union Chapel | Doors 19:00, curfew 22:30 | £35.75 (DICE “price you’ll pay”).
This is a beautiful seated gig in a church venue with real atmosphere. Expect deep cuts and strong musicianship.
Notes: under-16s need an adult 18+.
Jeff Tweedy — Islington Assembly Hall | 19:00 | £52.02 (inc booking fee).
This is a rare solo-style evening across a large catalogue. It is likely to be quiet and attentive.
Notes: 16+. Stage times are posted on the day by the venue.
Wavves — The Garage, Highbury | 19:00–23:00 | £22.50.
This is a sweaty Friday guitar night in a classic North London venue.
Notes: check final set times with the ticket agent.
Barbican music and late nights
Ryoji Ikeda: music for strings — Barbican | Fri 20 Feb 20:00 | Ticketed.
This is acoustic minimalism from a major electronic composer. It is a sharp contrast to club culture.
anyone can dance with Eastern Margins — Barbican ClubStage | 23:00 | Listed sold out online.
This is a late-night, diaspora-forward club line-up. It is one of the strongest “Farringdon nightlife” picks.
Notes: 18+. Expect loud music and club conditions.
Food and drink for Friday date night
If you want a “Michelin Friday” near Farringdon, aim for St. JOHN or Quality Chop House. Both are MICHELIN-listed and walkable from Farringdon.
Saturday 21 February 2026
Family-friendly half-term daytime
Islington Square Saturday Market — Islington | 11:00–17:00 | Free entry.
This is an easy family day: street food, desserts, makers and a lively pedestrian feel.
Notes: go early for shorter queues. Family-friendly: | Dog-friendly: depends on site policy | LGBTQ+ friendly: .
Neon Sun: Roller Circus — Jacksons Lane (near Archway) | Runs Tue 17–Sat 21 Feb | Ticketed.
It blends roller skating, circus and street culture. It is built for a high-energy half-term treat.
Notes: book ahead for best seats. Family-friendly: .
Live music
The Cavemen — O2 Academy Islington | 19:00 | Ticketmaster shows £32.90 full price.
This is modern highlife with big live-band joy. It is a great “dance-but-not-a-club” gig.
Notes: age restrictions apply by area.
The Smiths UTD — O2 Academy2 Islington | Doors 18:00, show 19:30, curfew 22:00 | £16.05 (See Tickets listing).
This is a tribute night with a strong singalong crowd. It is ideal for a nostalgia plan.
Notes: age guidance varies by agent.
Amber Run — Union Chapel | Doors 19:00, curfew 22:30 | Sold out.
This is an acoustic-leaning tour night in a venue that suits emotional indie perfectly.
Notes: under-16s need an adult.
Nightlife & clubs
Sigma + DJ Q + Anaïs + Flo — XOYO, Shoreditch | 23:00–04:00 | £10–£20.
This is a straightforward Saturday club plan. Expect UK dance flavours and a lively crowd.
Notes: check venue entry policy and last entry time.
Fabric — Farringdon | 23:00–07:00 | Line-up includes Craig Richards, Gene On Earth and Sonja Moonear.
This is a flagship London clubbing night. It suits proper house and techno heads.
Notes: 19+. Check ID policy before you go.
Slimelight Manifesto — Electrowerkz | 22:00–06:00 | Ticket tiers listed (members/guests; before 23:00 vs anytime).
Genres include goth, industrial, post‑punk, darkwave and EBM. This is the strongest alternative club option in the area.
Notes: last entry 03:00 and physical photo ID are stated.
Egg LDN Pres: SUBVRS — Egg London | 22:00–07:00 | Ticketed.
This is a long, late tech house and deep tech session. It is a serious Saturday choice near King’s Cross.
Notes: 18+. Check ticket platform for set times.
Basing House double header — Shoreditch | Day: 14:00–21:00 free entry live show; Night: 22:00–04:00 deep house + garage classics.
This is a good “all day into night” Shoreditch plan without big travel.
Notes: always confirm last entry and dress policy.
Queen of Hoxton Saturday — Shoreditch | Drag cabaret from 19:15; plus a free daytime hip hop party 13:00–18:00.
This is a flexible option if you want earlier fun. It is good for groups.
Notes: check entry rules and accessibility before booking.
The Cross London — King’s Cross | Listed as “private event” on Sat 21 Feb.
Treat it as unavailable for public clubbing this night. Choose an alternative nearby instead.
Sunday 22 February 2026
Markets and London day-out energy
If you want a “proper East London Sunday”, this is the classic circuit:
- Columbia Road Flower Market | 08:00–15:00-ish.
- Brick Lane Market | 10:00–18:00.
- Old Spitalfields Market | 10:00–17:00.
For a North London Sunday, do Islington Farmers’ Market (10:00–14:00), then walk to Angel for coffee and pubs. It is explicitly dog-friendly for well behaved dogs.
LGBTQ+ events
Let’s Talk Black & Brown Queerness — Union Chapel Bar | 14:00–18:00 | £10–£20.
This is a community conversation and cultural event, framed around LGBTQIA+ History Month. It focuses on loneliness and isolation in older queer communities.
Notes: 16+ (under-18s with an adult). Accessibility is listed, including wheelchair access and accessible toilets. LGBTQ+ friendly:
Theatre & performing arts
BLINK (matinee) — King’s Head Theatre | 13:00 | Ticketed.
This matinee is ideal if you want theatre without a late night. It also pairs well with Sunday roasts after.
Notes: age guidance 14+. Themes include grief and loss.
Nightlife & clubs
Fabric Sunday — Farringdon | 23:00–07:00 | Listed lineup includes Craig Richards plus guests (Sunday programme).
This is for people who prefer Sunday night dancing to crowded Saturday venues.
Notes: plan transport home before you go.
Sport
Tottenham vs Arsenal — Sun 22 Feb 2026 | Listed at 16:30 UK time.
If you want to watch it locally, pubs around Holloway Road, Highbury, and Finsbury Park usually fill early. Book ahead.
Sunday roast and “end the week well” dining
For a Michelin-listed Islington roast-style pub meal, look at MICHELIN-mentioned pubs like Drapers Arms and The Pig and Butcher. Always book on Sundays.
What’s on in Islington This week
Curated by Islington Local Guide your trusted guide for things to do and see in Islington, Kings cross, Shoreditch, Hoxton, Hackney , Dalston, Stoke Newington, Highbury, Finsbury Park, Archway , Holloway , Clerkenwell and Farringdon, Barnsbury Canonbury Updated weekly.
Last Updated: 16th February 2026
